Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A smart energy storage unit for receiving energy from and supplying energy to an electric grid, the smart energy storage unit comprising: an input associated with the smart energy storage unit, for receiving AC energy from the electric grid; a first inverter electrically coupled to the input for receiving a first amount of AC energy from the grid and converting the first amount of AC energy to a first amount of DC energy suitable for storage; a plurality of energy storage cells electrically coupled to the first inverter for receiving the first amount of DC energy and converting the first amount of DC energy to chemical energy for storage so as to charge the smart energy storage unit, and for converting a second amount of chemical energy to a second amount of DC energy for release to the grid so as to discharge the smart energy storage unit; a second inverter electrically coupled to the plurality of energy cells for receiving the second amount of DC energy from the plurality of energy storage cells and for converting the second amount of DC energy in to a second amount of AC energy for supply to the grid; an output for supplying AC energy to the electric grid; a battery management system coupled to the plurality of storage cells for directing the storing of energy in and the releasing of energy from the plurality of energy storage cells in accordance with energy management system instructions; a first control unit coupled to the battery management system for controlling the battery management system in accordance with a first set of received instructions; a second control unit coupled to the inverter for controlling the inverter in accordance with a second set of received instructions; a sensor capable of being coupled to the electric grid for sensing a condition of the electric grid; a communications module coupled to the sensor, for communicating the sensed condition to a master controller; and a master controller coupled to the communications module and the first and second control units for generating and communicating first and second instructions to the first and second control units so as to control the receiving of energy from and the supplying of energy to the electric grid and thereby controlling the charging and discharging of the smart energy storage unit in accordance with the sensed electrical grid condition.
A smart energy storage system is designed to manage energy exchange between an electric grid and a storage unit, optimizing grid stability and efficiency. The system includes an input for receiving alternating current (AC) energy from the grid and a first inverter that converts this AC energy into direct current (DC) energy for storage. A plurality of energy storage cells, such as batteries, store the DC energy as chemical energy and later convert it back to DC energy for release. A second inverter converts the stored DC energy back into AC energy for supply to the grid. The system also includes an output for delivering AC energy to the grid. A battery management system monitors and controls the charging and discharging of the storage cells, while a first control unit directs the battery management system based on received instructions. A second control unit manages the inverters. A sensor detects grid conditions, such as voltage or frequency fluctuations, and a communications module relays this data to a master controller. The master controller processes the grid conditions and generates instructions for the control units, enabling dynamic adjustment of energy storage and release to stabilize the grid. This system enhances grid reliability by responding to real-time demand and supply variations.
2. The smart energy storage unit according to claim 1 , wherein the input comprises the output.
A smart energy storage unit is designed to manage and optimize energy distribution in systems where energy generation and consumption are variable, such as renewable energy systems or grid-tied applications. The unit includes an input for receiving energy from a source, an output for delivering energy to a load, and a controller that regulates energy flow between them. The controller monitors energy levels, demand, and supply conditions to ensure efficient storage and distribution. In an advanced configuration, the input and output are integrated, allowing bidirectional energy flow. This means the unit can both receive energy from a source (e.g., solar panels or the grid) and supply energy to a load (e.g., a building or battery) through the same interface. The bidirectional capability enhances flexibility, enabling seamless switching between charging and discharging modes based on real-time conditions. The controller may also incorporate predictive algorithms to optimize energy usage, reducing waste and improving system efficiency. This design is particularly useful in applications requiring dynamic energy management, such as smart grids or hybrid power systems.
3. The smart energy storage unit according to claim 1 , wherein the first inverter comprises the second inverter.
A smart energy storage system integrates a primary inverter and a secondary inverter to manage energy flow between a power grid, renewable energy sources, and energy storage devices. The primary inverter handles bidirectional power conversion between the grid and the storage system, while the secondary inverter manages power exchange between the storage devices and the primary inverter. The secondary inverter is embedded within the primary inverter, reducing system complexity and improving efficiency by eliminating the need for separate power conversion stages. This configuration allows the system to dynamically balance power distribution, optimize energy storage, and enhance grid stability. The integrated design minimizes energy losses and reduces hardware costs by consolidating components. The system is particularly useful in renewable energy applications, where efficient energy storage and grid interaction are critical for maintaining reliable power supply. The secondary inverter's integration within the primary inverter ensures seamless power management, enabling the system to respond quickly to fluctuations in energy demand and supply. This approach enhances overall system performance and reliability while simplifying installation and maintenance.
4. The smart energy storage unit according to claim 3 , wherein the electric grid is one of a nano-grid, a pico-grid, and fento-grid.
A smart energy storage unit is designed to manage and optimize energy distribution within localized electrical grids, particularly in small-scale or microgrid environments. The unit addresses challenges in energy stability, efficiency, and reliability in decentralized power systems, such as nano-grids, pico-grids, and femto-grids. These grids are characterized by their small size and limited capacity, often serving specific buildings, neighborhoods, or industrial facilities. The smart energy storage unit integrates with these grids to store excess energy generated from renewable or conventional sources and release it during peak demand or when generation is insufficient. It includes advanced control systems to monitor grid conditions, balance supply and demand, and ensure seamless operation. The unit may also incorporate energy management algorithms to prioritize energy sources, minimize losses, and extend the lifespan of storage components. By operating within nano-grids, pico-grids, or femto-grids, the storage unit enhances grid resilience, reduces dependency on larger power networks, and supports sustainable energy integration. The system may further include communication interfaces to coordinate with other grid assets, such as distributed energy resources or smart meters, enabling real-time adjustments and improved overall efficiency. This solution is particularly valuable in remote or off-grid applications where reliable energy storage is critical.
5. The smart energy storage unit according to claim 4 , wherein the inverter is further configured for converting the first DC energy to a second DC energy, and the output is configured for supplying DC energy to the electric grid.
A smart energy storage unit is designed to manage and distribute electrical energy efficiently, particularly in systems where renewable energy sources like solar or wind power are integrated with the electric grid. The unit addresses the challenge of balancing intermittent renewable energy supply with stable grid demand by storing excess energy and releasing it when needed. The system includes an inverter that converts direct current (DC) energy from a storage device, such as a battery, into a second form of DC energy suitable for grid injection. This allows the stored energy to be supplied directly to the electric grid in a compatible format, ensuring seamless integration with existing infrastructure. The inverter's dual conversion capability enhances flexibility, enabling the unit to adapt to varying energy storage and grid requirements. By providing DC output to the grid, the system reduces conversion losses and improves overall energy efficiency. This solution supports grid stability, renewable energy adoption, and efficient energy distribution.
6. The smart energy storage unit according to claim 5 , wherein the smart energy storage unit is integrated within an electric appliance.
The invention relates to smart energy storage systems designed to enhance energy efficiency in electric appliances. The system addresses the problem of inefficient energy usage and grid dependency by integrating a smart energy storage unit directly within an electric appliance. This integration allows the appliance to store excess energy generated during off-peak hours or from renewable sources, such as solar or wind, and use it during peak demand periods or when grid power is unavailable. The smart energy storage unit includes a battery management system that monitors and optimizes energy storage and discharge cycles to extend battery life and improve efficiency. It also features communication capabilities to interface with external energy sources, smart grids, or other appliances, enabling coordinated energy management. The system may include sensors to detect energy demand patterns and adjust storage and usage accordingly. By embedding the storage unit within the appliance, the invention reduces energy costs, minimizes grid strain, and supports sustainable energy practices. The appliance may be a household device, industrial equipment, or any energy-consuming system that benefits from localized energy storage.
7. The smart energy storage unit according to claim 5 , wherein the master controller includes a user interface to receive user commands to program the control unit to withdraw energy from the electric grid and to supply energy to the electric grid.
A smart energy storage system is designed to optimize energy management in residential or commercial settings by storing excess energy from renewable sources or the electric grid and supplying it back when needed. The system includes a master controller that regulates energy flow between the storage unit, renewable energy sources, and the grid. This controller is equipped with a user interface that allows users to program and control energy withdrawal from the grid and energy supply back to the grid. The interface enables users to set parameters for when and how much energy is exchanged, ensuring efficient energy usage and cost savings. The system may also integrate with renewable energy sources like solar panels to store surplus energy and reduce reliance on the grid. By providing direct user control over energy transactions, the system enhances flexibility and adaptability to varying energy demands and grid conditions. The master controller may also include communication modules to monitor and adjust energy storage and distribution in real-time, improving overall system efficiency. This technology addresses the need for reliable, user-configurable energy storage solutions that support grid stability and renewable energy integration.
8. The smart energy storage unit according to claim 7 , wherein the master controller includes a memory for storing user use commands.
A smart energy storage unit is designed to optimize energy management in residential or commercial settings by integrating with renewable energy sources, grid power, and energy-consuming devices. The unit addresses the challenge of efficiently storing and distributing energy to reduce reliance on the grid, minimize energy costs, and enhance sustainability. The system includes a master controller that coordinates energy flow between storage, generation, and consumption points. This controller is equipped with a memory for storing user-defined commands, allowing customization of energy usage patterns, such as prioritizing renewable energy sources, scheduling charging/discharging cycles, or setting energy conservation thresholds. The stored commands enable automated decision-making to optimize energy efficiency based on user preferences, real-time data, and environmental conditions. The unit may also include communication interfaces for remote monitoring and control, ensuring seamless integration with smart home or building management systems. By leveraging stored user commands, the system enhances adaptability and user control over energy storage and distribution, improving overall energy management and cost savings.
9. The smart energy storage unit according to claim 8 , wherein the master controller includes the communications module, and the communications module includes a communication interface for communicating with a remote server via a communications network.
A smart energy storage unit is designed to optimize energy management in residential or commercial settings by integrating with renewable energy sources and grid power. The unit stores excess energy generated from solar panels or other renewable sources and discharges it during peak demand periods, reducing reliance on the grid and lowering energy costs. A key challenge addressed by this technology is the need for efficient communication between the energy storage unit and external systems, such as remote servers, to enable real-time monitoring, control, and data exchange. The smart energy storage unit includes a master controller that manages energy flow, storage, and distribution. The master controller incorporates a communications module with a communication interface, allowing it to connect to a remote server via a communications network. This interface enables bidirectional data transfer, facilitating remote diagnostics, firmware updates, and integration with smart grid systems. The communications module ensures seamless interaction with external platforms, enhancing the unit's ability to respond to grid demands, optimize energy usage, and provide users with real-time insights. By enabling remote access and control, the system improves energy efficiency, reduces operational costs, and supports sustainable energy practices.
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April 28, 2020
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